Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird'

Clethra alnifolia ‘Hummingbird’ (Summersweet)

A compact, charming selection of the native Summersweet, ‘Hummingbird’ is beloved for its abundant, fragrant white flower spikes that appear in mid- to late summer—when few other shrubs bloom in shade. The sweetly scented blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and of course, hummingbirds.

This dwarf variety forms a dense, rounded mound of glossy green foliage that turns warm yellow in fall. Excellent for foundation plantings, woodland edges, and moist or shady sites, it’s a dependable, low-maintenance shrub that brings both beauty and wildlife interest.

Details:
Hardiness Zone: 4–9
Height: 3–4 ft
Spread: 3–4 ft
Light: Part shade to full sun
Notes: Compact; fragrant blooms; great for pollinators; thrives in moist soils; native.